The Scent If you like the light smell of lavender with a side of clove-like spice and sweet herbal notes, you’ll love this scent. Holy basil, also known as Ocimum sanctum L. and tulsi, is native to Southeast Asia. It has a history within Indian medicine as a treatment for many conditions. From the leaves to the seed, holy basil is considered a tonic for the body, mind, and spirit. The scent is refreshing and calming all at once.